Amber Cove - New Carnival Cruise Line Port in The Dominican Republic.

As cruising becomes more and more popular, there are many attempts made to make things fresh and that includes ports of call.  The $85 million dollar new port facility named Amber Cove, in the Puerto Plata area of the Dominican Republic has been under construction since 2012.  This October 6th, the Carnival Victory will make an inaugural visit to the new port of call.  In a previous post here, I asked about travel to Cuba in the near future.  Well Carnival has stated that this new port was strategically located to be incorporated into future cruise itineraries that will serve Cuba.   Hmmmm, was Carnival seeing the future or was this simply luck on their part?

Contact me, Matthew Dobeck, Cruise Brothers Travel Expert at mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954) 798-6573 to book your next vacation!

Would You Vacation In Cuba?

When looking at a map of the Caribbean, you can't help but see the massive country of Cuba,  Due to past travel restrictions, it was never an option to visit there, so in my mind, the country only existed as something in history books or in random current events.

The recent exciting news about the loosening of travel restrictions to Cuba has the travel industry buzzing.  Not because everyone is jumping to book travel there, as some restrictions still apply, but because the possibilities of future travel and vacationing there are certainly something to think about.

Will there be new cruise ship ports of call?  Will guided tours and all-inclusive style resorts become a huge option for Cuba?  How would you like to discover Cuba?

Please comment and let me know what you think!

New Village Causeway Is Now Open At Downtown Disney Marketplace

Walt Disney World in Florida announced many years ago that it's popular Downtown Disney entertainment, dining and shopping venue, would be undergoing a major transformation.

The latest in the changes and additions is now complete. It is called The Village Causeway which is a bridge that connects the area near The LEGO Store across the water to Rainforest Café,   Seems to me like a nice "short cut" to get through especially when it's busy.  

Have you been there?  Please comment and let me know your thoughts.

As always be sure to contact me, Matthew Dobeck, Cruise Brothers Travel Advisor and Disney Expert, to book your next vacation!  mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954)798-6573

Walt Disney World Ticket Price Increase 2/22/2015

As of today, Walt Disney World has increased ticket pricing.  Starting 2/22/2015, prices are as follows:

1-Day Magic Kingdom Park:                        $105.00
1-Day Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom Park or Disney's Hollywood Studios:       $97.00

Price Hopper and Water Park Tickets have also increased.

Click Here For All Ticketing Pricing

Rumor has it that Walt Disney World will also be retiring the non-expiration option as well, but I have not had any confirmation of this yet.  What this will mean, is that tickets that have been used and have remaining days on them will now expire and there is no option to pay to have them last forever.  All tickets that are unused currently are good indefinitely.  I will post again when I have confirmation regarding the non-expiration option.

Contact me, Matthew Dobeck to book your Walt Disney World vacation today!  I am the Disney expert!  mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954)-798-6573.

Mondrian Travel's New Facebook Page!

Facebook - Travel Stories and Tips!

Throwback Thursday - Seabourn Legend

Several years back, I took four cruises on Seabourn Cruise Lines.  These photos are from a Transatlantic Crossing on the Seabourn Legend.  Now retired, the three "sister" ships, the Legend, Pride and Spirit are certainly missed.  I am looking forward to trying the newer "bigger sisters" sometime soon.  Seabourn is truly the best luxury cruiseline out there!

Please contact me today to book your next cruise!  (954)798-6573 or mattdobeck@outlook.com - Matthew Dobeck

Disney cruises to feature Star Wars characters!

Just when we thought Disney Cruises had something for everyone, starting in 2016, Star Wars fans will get a special day on select Sailings out of Port Canaveral.

The Star Wars Day at Sea features a full day of Star Wars celebrations, including a deck party of course, meets and greets with the Star Wars characters, themed activities and unique food and beverage offerings.  The finale evening deck party is a special display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and lasers.

Contact me, Matthew Dobeck, Cruise Brothers Cruise Consultant at mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954)-798-6573 to book your Disney vacation today!

Get A Free Convertible Rental When You Book Your Trip To Hawaii!

Why not tour around the island in style in a convertible?  Simply book your 3 night Hawaiian vacation at your choice of any island with Pleasant Holidays and get a free Hertz convertible rental.

Contact me, Matthew Dobeck today, to get in on this great offer!

mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954) 798-6573

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Hertz Car Rental Offer: FREE 3-day convertible car rental valid on new bookings made 1/12 - 3/1/15 for travel 1/12 - 6/7 and 9/8 - 12/20/15. FREE one-category car rental upgrade valid on new bookings made 1/12 - 3/1/15 for travel 6/8 - 9/7/15. Minimum 3-night hotel accommodations at participating property and roundtrip airfare required. All offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.]

Save Up To 45% In Jamaica

Tucked between the rising peaks of Jamaica's famous mountains and the rippling waters that lap its pristine shores, the newly renovated Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall and the all new Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall are a paradise of rest, relaxation and recreation. Here, guests of all ages are free to enjoy the best the island has to offer in all-inclusive splendor. From gourmet cuisine and accommodations to thrilling sports on land and sea, it’s an experience every member of the family will love unconditionally.

Hyatt Zilara™: Adults-only, all inclusive resort create endless opportunities to live in the moment. Guests delight in unique and spontaneous experiences, whether you seek ultimate relaxation in a carefree, sophisticated setting or a calendar full of activities—allowing you to explore their surroundings.

Hyatt Ziva™: All-inclusive resorts capture the fun and excitement of a beach vacation. Guests of all ages discover new things, bond in new ways and enjoy a welcoming staff all in the beauty of local culture and authentic culinary delights. The experience will inspire stories among groups, families, friends and soon-to-be friends.

Book now and save up to 45% at both all-inclusive resorts.

Contact me, Matthew Dobeck to book your next Jamaican vacation today!

mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954) 798-6573

The Trolley Car Cafe Is Open AT Disney's Hollywood Studios

You can now enjoy your favorite Starbucks menu items at the Trolley Car Cafe located on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Contact me today to book your next trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland or a cruise on Disney Cruise Lines!  Matthew Dobeck - mattdobeck@outlook.com (954) 798-6573

My first look at a glacier...

Throwback Thurday!

This was on my first Alaska cruise.  I never expected a glacier to look this amazing.  On my next Alaska trip I want to actually walk across one of these!  Note:  This was over July 4th weekend in 2010 and the temps were literally freezing!  That thin jacket I am wearing was the warmest thing I had.  It's not wonder I came down with a serious ear infection upon coming back home to Florida!

La Compagnie adds Newark-London flights

All-business-class airline La Compagnie will begin Newark-London service on April 24. 

I definitely wish La Compagnie great success as I feel that all-business-class airlines are a great solution for people who enjoy a much more relaxing international flight experience than the main-stream airlines can deliver.  While many airlines have superior international business and first class accommodations, a smaller airline with smaller aircraft like La Compagnie can get you there more efficiently and in total comfort.

La Compagnie launched last July with service between Newark and Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris.

La Compagnie will fly to Luton Airport, which is 32 miles north of London’s city center. The carrier will operate the flight four times per week, with plans to increase to six times weekly in June starting April 24th.

The airline has all Boeing 757-200 jets which feature 74 lie-flat seats. In-flight amenities include Samsung Galaxy Tablets preloaded with movies, newspapers, games and books; Caudalie cosmetic amenity kits; and dining services created by Michelin-starred chef Christophe Langrée.

Credit to Jerry Limone, Travel Weekly

Kids Stay Free All Year at Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana & Riviera Maya

Fully stacked with legendary amenities, the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels in Mexico & the Dominican Republic offer a whole new level of get-away-from-it-all luxury that will dazzle and delight your inner rock star. From the Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses, to the pristine waters and sparkling pools and the lavish Rock Spa®, get ready to tune in, turn it up and take on the Caribbean. Please contact me, Matthew Dobeck to book your next vacation at one of these awesome resorts!  mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954) 798-6573

Punta Cana

Riviera Maya

2 Kids Ages 4-12 Stay Free With One Full Paying Adult In One Room. Book Now And Travel Before December 23, 2016. Applicable To Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana & Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Family Suite Category. Blackout Dates Exists Per Property. Minimum 3 Night Stay Required.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Valid for up to 2 children ages 4-12 per room, per stay when accompanied by one full paying adult. Children’s ages MUST be notified on the reservation and ages must be accurate at time of travel (proof of age will be required upon check-in). In the event that ages are incorrect, the difference in the rate will be charged upon check-in. Promotion is subject to change without prior notice. Promotion not applicable with any type of reduced or discounted rate (employee rates, travel agent rates, FAMS, complimentary or compensatory stays). Promotion is applicable for weddings, leisure, social and incentive groups. This promotion is combinable with Early booking holidays and $1800 Limitless Resort Credit. Valid for US.

All Inclusive and All Adult - Grand Lido Negril Resort and Spa

Check out the highlight's of one of Jamaica's best kept secrets and then contact me today to book your winter get-away at this fabulous resort!

Matthew Dobeck - Cruise Brothers Travel Coordinator

matdobeck@outlook.com

(954) 798-6573

Spanning across 1000 feet of one of the Caribbean's most famous beaches, the Grand Lido Negril is a 24 hour all inclusive adults only resort that offers lively ambiance with intimate service. Guests of this legendary resort enjoy spacious junior or one bedroom suites, world class restaurants, the Caribbean's most amazing sunsets, and the opportunity to indulge in extras like soothing spa treatments. Grand Lido Negril's relaxed tropical atmosphere and attentive staff have earned it recognition and awards over the years from respected names in travel like Conde Nast® and TripAdvisor®.

We welcome guests with warm Jamaican hospitality and our exceptional 24 hour all inclusive service like:

• Reservation-free dining
• Unlimited international premium drinks
• Unlimited dining
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort
• Unlimited free in-room calling to North America and Europe*
• Concierge Service
• Daily and nightly entertainment
• Introductory scuba lessons in the pool
• In-room mini-bar which is stocked regularly
• In-room electronic safe.

Outdoor Activities

Beach volleyball, table tennis, trivia games, nature walks, mixology classes, cooking classes, aerobics and reggae classes are only some of the many activities in which our guests can participate. The Fitness Center is furnished with professional equipment. There are 4 tennis courts on location, 2 of which can be lit for night play at an additional cost.

Our main pool is located between the main beach and the terrace, while the other is located in the tranquil west end of the hotel. There are 5 Jacuzzis located throughout the property.

Indoor Activities

Backgammon, cards, dominos, pool tables, table tennis, and several board games are available for your enjoyment in the Games Room.

Nightly Entertainment

After a fun-filled day, unwind and free your spirit at our Piano Bar, night club, or by catching some live nightly entertainment. Enjoy karaoke, steel drum bands, local rhythms, game shows, theme nights, and so much more.

Spa

Guests can enjoy a wide selection of spa services including Massages Reflexology, and Beauty treatments, Our therapeutic facilities have a Hot Jacuzzi, Cold Plunge Pool, Sauna & Steam Room. Here only the finest natural ingredients from land and sea are used in all spa treatments, products and facials to maintain a balance with nature and enhance the mind, body and spirit connection.

World Class Accommodations

All of our junior suites and suites offer spacious air-conditioned comfort with satellite television, radio and cd player, mini bar (re-stocked regularly with soft drinks, water, and beer), free Wi-Fi, electronic safety deposit box, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, coffee maker, and terrace or balcony. Choose from a selection of junior suite and suite categories offering lush tropical garden, ocean, beachfront, or cove view.

Vow To Change The Way You Vacation - With Royal Caribbean International

. Change course on a vacation that's unlike any other. Exciting. Enriching. Totally WOW. A Royal Caribbean International® cruise redefines what a vacation can be. Now's the perfect time to start planning. During our VOWTOWOW Sale second guest in stateroom sails for half off plus you get up to $200 to spend anyway you'd like. This offer is available on Caribbean, Europe, Alaska sailings and more. CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR ROYAL CARIBBEAN VACATION. Mondrian Travel Matthew Dobeck - Cruise Brothers mattdobeck@outlook.com (954) 798-6573 * Prices are per person, cruise only, based on double occupancy, and interior stateroom. Offer applies to all sailings, excluding Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and all China departures. Buy One, Get One 50% applies to all stateroom categories and excludes third and higher occupancy guests. Cruise must be booked Jan 1 – Feb 13, 2015 (the "Offer Period"). Offer provides for an onboard credit ('OBC') of up to $200 per stateroom based on category purchased, excluding interior staterooms, as well as 50% off cruise fare of second guest booked in the same stateroom as a first guest who books at full fare. All other charges, including, but not limited to, taxes, fees and port expenses, are additional and apply to all guests. OBC amount is one per stateroom and based on stateroom category purchased. Refer to royalcaribbean.com for full list of OBC amounts. OBC will be applied automatically at time of booking to all eligible reservations and displayed as per person amounts for 1st and 2nd guests, totaling the per stateroom value. Buy One, Get One 50% off is combinable with the adjoining OBC offer, Crown & Anchor discounts and NextCruise offers. Buy One, Get One 50% off offer is not combinable with restricted rates (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military, Kids Sail Free). OBC offer is combinable with restricted rates (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military, BOGO, Kids Sail Free) as well as NextCruise offers. OBC offer is not combinable with Crown & Anchor discounts. Neither offer is combinable with any other offer or promotion, including, but not limited to, Interline, Travel Agent, Travel Agent Friends and Family, weekly Sales Events, Net Rates, Shareholder Benefits. After the Offer Period, the Offer will be removed from the booking if the guest cancels and reinstates the booking, applies a fare change, or changes the ship or sail date of the booking; certain other changes to the booking may also result in removal of the Offer. Offer applies to new, individual and named group bookings confirmed at prevailing rates. Individual reservations can be transferred into an existing group, assuming required criteria are met. Offer available to residents of the United States or Canada. Prices and Offer are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and may be withdrawn at any time. Refer to royalcaribbean.com for complete terms and conditions. Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice. ©2015 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships' registry: The Bahamas. *Brilliance of the Seas® is operated by RCL (UK) Ltd., a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. • 14041857

Save Up To $200 From Minneapolis To The Caribbean with Funjet

Save up to $200 on select vacation packages from Minneapolis to the Caribbean. Just book by February 5th with our exclusive Minneapolis promo code* meaning three nights at the all-inclusive Grand Palladium Jamaica starts from just $749 per person!

Contact me for exclusive Funjet savings from Minneapolis.

 Matthew Dobeck mattdobeck@outlook.com - (954) 798-6573

Finest Playa Mujeres Resort By Exellence Group - Opening Special Save Up To 35%

Life done beautifully. All-Inclusive luxury for guests of all ages, Finest Playa Mujeres by Excellence Group is a modern and sophisticated resort in the Mexican Caribbean with dedicated areas for adults only and the renowned service by Excellence Group. Open February 12, 2015!!!

Save 30% off on travel February 12 - April 27, 2015.
Save 35% off on travel April 28 – August 22, 2015.

Contact me for more information or to be one of the first to experience this wonderful new resort.  Matthew Dobeck - mattdobeck@outlook.com or (954) 798-6573

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Blackout Dates: February 12, 15 - 22, 2015